Md. Babul Hossain, 38, a resident of Manikganj, succumbed to the Nipah virus recently. Just days prior, 27-year-old Lutfar Rahman from the same district died under similar circumstances. Although there was no official confirmation of Nipah virus in Lutfar's case, according to the Upazila Health and Family Planning Center, the situation has sparked panic.
Not only for Manikganj, but it is a matter of concern for Bangladesh, given the vulnerability to this virus in recent years. It is imperative to acquire accurate knowledge about Nipah virus infection and take appropriate action to prevent its spread. To prevent infection, let's understand how the Nipah virus spreads and identify its sources.
What is the Nipah Virus?
Nipah virus, in short NiV, is one of many types of zoonotic viruses. A zoonotic virus refers to a virus that can be transmitted between vertebrates and humans.
While the potential carriers of NiV are numerous, its presence has been observed primarily in pigs and bats. Specifically, the carrier of NiV is fruit bats of the genus Pteropus, commonly known as the flying foxes.
Pteropus is among the largest species of bats globally. They are commonly found in Southeast Asia, India, South Asia, Australia, East Africa, and the Pacific Islands.
Read more: After father-in-law, woman dies of ‘Nipah virus’ in Naogaon
How is the Nipah Virus Spread?
The essential genetic material in an animal's body is RNA or ribonucleic acid. NiV primarily infects the entire animal by targeting this RNA. Subsequently, when another animal comes into contact with the infected one, the viral RNA spreads to the healthy animal. The contact can be made through various mediums, such as
- Direct contact with infected animals, such as bat blood, saliva, vomit, or feces, poses a risk.
- Location of palm trees near yards, water wells, agricultural fields, or domestic animal shelters, can enhance the risks of contamination.
- Consumption of food or water contaminated with body fluids of NiV infected animals, such as palm sap and water from wells contaminated by bats, or partially eaten fruits by bats, can also facilitate the transmission of Nipah virus.
- Contact with an NiV infected person, involving exposure to blood, spit, sneezes, vomit, feces, or even respiratory droplets, is another route of Nipah virus transmission. Several incidents in Bangladesh and India proved that NiV is airborne and moderately contagious.
Read more: Suspected Nipah virus patient dies in Barishal
Most Vulnerable Communities to Nipah Virus Outbreaks
While human-to-human transmission was not initially reported, this phenomenon is being increasingly observed, especially in Bangladesh and neighboring countries like India.
Hospital workers caring for patients infected with Nipah virus, family members of patients, and individuals involved in palm juice harvesting are now at the highest risk.
